The Chicago Blackhawks acquired veteran forward Josh Bailey from the New York Islanders on Thursday. According to TSN Hockey Insider Chris Johnston, they placed him on unconditional waivers for the purpose of a buyout.
The 2026 second-round pick would go with Bailey to Chicago in exchange for future considerations.
Josh Bailey (CHI) has been placed on unconditional waivers for the purpose of a buyout.
— Chris Johnson (@reporterchris) 29 June 2023
The ninth overall selection of the 2008 NHL Entry Draft by the Windsor Spitfires of the Ontario Hockey League, Bailey has appeared in 1,057 NHL games over 15 seasons with the team. He ranks third in games played in franchise history. He appeared in 64 games in 2022–2023, scoring eight goals and 17 assists.
Bowmanville, Ontario, for much of his career. The native has 184 goals and 196 assists.
Internationally, Bailey represented Canada at the 2018 IIHF World Hockey Championship in Copenhagen.
Bailey was to enter the final year of a six-year, $30 million deal. While his cap hit is $5 million, Bailey’s salary is $3.5 million in actual cash.
blackhawks stay busy
Following Bailey’s move, Chicago also acquired the rights to pending unrestricted free agent forward Corey Perry on Thursday in exchange for a 2024 seventh-round pick.
Perry is set to become a free agent on July 1 with a two-year deal worth $2 million. TSN Hockey Insider Pierre LeBrun reports that talks are underway between Perry and the club ahead of Saturday’s UFA market opening.
The 38-year-old appeared in 81 games for the Lightning last season, scoring 12 goals and adding 13 assists for 25 points. He also scored two goals and three assists in six playoff games as the Lightning were eliminated in the opening round by the Toronto Maple Leafs.